From classic literature to relatively new headlines, this list has something for everybody.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

You’ve probably seen this book on every list ofthe recommended books, and there’s a good reason for it. This Pulitzer Prize winner is a book about racial inequality and justice. There’s a good chance that you read it in high school but if you didn’t, here’s an opportunity to change that.

See the world through the eyes of a little girl named Scout as she ponders over the goodness and evil of mankind in the small town of Maycomb.

The Great Gatsbyby F. Scott Fitzgerald

Travel back to the 1920s to the fictional town of West Egg and follow the life of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire who is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan. The narrator of the story is Nick Carraway, who is fascinated by Gatsby, the life he leads, and the exquisite parties he throws.

Pride and Prejudiceby Jane Austin

A classic novel from the beginning of the 19th century. It tells the story of Elizabeth Bennett, the second of five girls. This witty and intelligent 20-year-old learns not to judge on the first impressions as she struggles with her upbringing, manners, and marriage while learning to overcome her own prejudice.

The Diary of a Young Girlby Anne Frank

This book is an actual diary a young girl wrote while she hid with her Jewish family for two years during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Published by her father after the war ended, the chilling fate of this young girl is even more devastating when you realize that it isn’t a work of fiction. Neither were her fears and worries.

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

For most people that were children when this book was published in the late 1990s, this story of a young boy who goes to a school for wizards was what launched their passion for reading. The franchise isn’t just a story for children. Both young and old enjoy these stories about the importance of friendship, family. The book also shows that being different isn’t a bad thing after all.

The Picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wild

When this philosophical novel was first published in 1980, it was received critically and even censored because people feared the message would corrupt the masses. But the censorship didn’t stop the book from becoming a success as Wild fought back against the critics. His story of a young man that questions the meaning of art and soon his sanity has left people questioning the role art plays in our lives. This happens even now, more than a century after the novel’s initial release.

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

If you’re a fan of horror and mystery novels, this story of a vampire who struggles with what he is and searches for meaning will draw you in. The writing style, paranormal world, and compelling characters show just how good a writer Anne Rice is.

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Another novel that deals with race issues and segregation in the south. This heartbreaking novel follows an African-American girl as she battles hardships that come with having dark skin.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carrol

Go down the rabbit hole with Alice and share the experiences of the peculiar world of Wonderland. This book captures how magic and imaginative the world can be from a little girl’s perspective, and it will surely awaken your inner child.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

Dracula is a well-known book for horror lovers. This classic story is about a vampire who is constantly looking for new blood and trying to spread his undead curse. Written as a series of letters and diary entries, this story is sure to be your favorite if you’re a horror fan.

The thrilling and mysterious story has left an undeniable mark on the entire genre, and its impact is obvious in fiction even today.